In this content, Catalystng.com is going to talk about the fully funded 2025 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University, Lekki, Lagos State, Nigeria.
Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University is offering fully funded scholarships to outstanding young Africans facing financial or socio-economic challenges.
The programme places strong emphasis on inclusion, prioritising young women, refugees and displaced youths, as well as persons living with disabilities, in a bid to expand access to quality education and leadership development opportunities across the continent.
As the first Nigerian university to partner with the Mastercard Foundation, Pan-Atlantic University has committed to training 650 scholars over a 10-year period.
So far, the institution has admitted 60 scholars in its first cohort, made up of 80 per cent young women, 20 per cent young men, 6.7 per cent persons with disabilities, and 3.3 per cent refugees or displaced youths.
With preparations underway for the next application cycle, the university plans to admit an additional 70 scholars as it continues its mission of raising ethical, service-driven leaders committed to transforming their communities and Africa at large.
Who can apply? Applicants should meet the following criteria:
- Demonstrate academic excellence
- Show leadership potential and a commitment to making a positive impact in their communities
- Demonstrate financial need
- Have passed WAEC/NECO/GCE/NABTEB with 5 credits, including English and Mathematics, and three other relevant subjects in Arts, Sciences, or Social Sciences (in not more than two sittings)
- Have a UTME minimum score of 220(Required UTME subjects: English Language and any three Social Science, Arts, or Science subjects)
Priority Applicants
The programme particularly encourages applications from:
- Young women interested in STEM programmes
- Internally displaced young people
- Young people living with disabilities
Eligible applicants who do not fall within these priority groups are also welcome to apply.
Key Features and Benefits of 2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University:
The Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program provides comprehensive support to ensure your academic and professional success, including:
- Full tuition coverage
- Accommodation and living expenses
- Mentorship and leadership development
- Internship and career support
- Networking opportunities
Selection process for fully funded 2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University:
Step 1: Meet the Academic Requirements
- Applicants must have a minimum of five (5) O’Level credits, including Mathematics and English Language, obtained in not more than two sittings.
Step 2: Fill Out the Application Interest Form
- Interested candidates who DO NOT yet have their UTME result should complete the Interest Form to indicate their interest in applying and to begin the screening process.
Step 3: Write the JAMB UTME
- Applicants must sit for the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board – Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examination (JAMB UTME).
- A minimum score of 220 is required to proceed to the next stage
Step 4: Complete the Online Application Form
Eligible candidates with current-year UTME results should complete the application form, providing their personal, academic, and background information, along with the required documentation.
Step 5: Screening and Shortlisting for Interviews
- Applications are reviewed to ensure alignment with eligibility criteria and the goals of the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
- Shortlisted candidates are invited for an interview, which may be conducted in-person or virtually, depending on location and circumstances.
Step 6: Admission and Scholarship Award
- Successful candidates will be notified of admission into Pan-Atlantic University and a formal scholarship award offer under the Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program.
How to apply for the fully funded 2026 Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program at Pan-Atlantic University:
Early application is strongly encouraged, as admissions are competitive and class sizes are limited.
